New UK Prime Minister David Cameron’s first day at a European Council, in Brussels on 17 June, began with a morning meeting with European Commission President José Manuel Barroso. Cameron was welcomed at the Commission’s Berlaymont building with a traditional British breakfast, and he appeared at ease. Nonetheless, his visit to Brussels shows how strong the force of realism is over UK scepticism. This is all the more true even if the UK prime minister continues to emit traditional Eurosceptic vibes on occasion.

Speaking to journalists following the breakfast meeting, Cameron promised that Britain would play a positive, active and engaged role in Europe. “Of course, we will always defend our national interests and red lines,” Cameron said. “But we know how important it is that there is in Europe growth and confidence.” He also promised that the UK will be a good promoter of free trade, the Doha round and also the completion of the EU’s single market. “We are not a member of the euro and nor are we going to become a member. But a strong and successful eurozone is vital for Britain’s national interest,” he continued.

Later in the day, in dealings with his European colleagues, Cameron once again painted his red lines, saying ‘no’ to peer review of the UK budget or the possibility of penalties for bad budgetary behavior. If such rules are decided - at a later date - then Cameron’s UK will insist they apply only to the eurozone. After his first showing at a European Council, though, Cameron will obviously face an uphill task back home convincing party colleagues that he can not only prevent but reverse the loss of national competence to the EU. In all events, and despite the red lines, UK media talked of Cameron’s “charm offensive” in Brussels.